Tragic accident claims lives on Ijebu-Ode-Benin expressway
The serene ambience along the Ijebu-Ode-Ore-Benin expressway was shattered on Saturday by a catastrophic collision of vehicles which claimed lives and left a trail of devastation.
The incident, which occurred around 1:21 pm near Ajede, following J3 Junction, has sent shockwaves through the community and raised serious questions about road safety measures.
According to a statement from Florence Okpe, the spokesperson of the Ogun State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps, the fatal crash involved a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to Iyare Motors, bearing the registration plate GUE59ZY, and a stationary truck marked with plate number BGT94LG.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the bus driver’s excessive speed was a contributing factor, causing him to lose control and collide with the truck parked on the roadside.
The aftermath of the collision was tragic with two individuals losing their lives and thirteen others sustaining injuries of varying degrees. Among the fifteen passengers involved, comprising ten male adults and five female adults, the impact of the crash left a lasting scar on the community.
In the wake of this heartbreaking incident, the injured were swiftly transported to Hope Hospital in J4 for urgent medical attention, while the deceased were deposited at the morgue of General Hospital, Ijebu Ode; as families mourn their loved ones and survivors grapple with the physical and emotional trauma, the community stands united in grief.
Meanwhile, the Ogun Sector Commander of the FRSC, Anthony Uga, has issued a stern reminder to motorists regarding the importance of road safety. Addressing concerns about wrongful parking on highways, Uga emphasised the need for c-caution signs and responsible driving practices. He urged motorists to shun speed and prioritize safety, echoing the sentiments of a community reeling from the aftermath of tragedy.
As investigations into the accident continue, authorities are doubling their efforts to ensure that such incidents are not repeated. With the memory of this fateful day etched in the collective consciousness, the call for vigilance and adherence to safety regulations resonates louder than ever before along the Ijebu-Ode-Ore-Benin expressway.
